Examining the factorial structure, measurement invariance and convergent and discriminant validity of a novel self-report measure of work ability: work ability – personal radar

For identification of groups and domains for work ability promotion, brief self-report measure, work ability - personal radar (WA-PR), based on the 'the house of work ability' model is presented and psychometrically evaluated in the structural equation framework using data from technological sector (N = 3754). The house model had acceptable fit to the data. In addition, factor loadings in the model were invariant across groups, demonstrating metric invariance of the WA-PR. Scalar invariance of WA-PR was fully demonstrated across men and women, and partially demonstrated across age and employee groups. Comparisons between groups revealed lower levels of health and functional capacity, but higher levels of four other WA-PR dimensions in older employees. In addition, all house structures showed convergence with alternative work ability measures. WA-PR demonstrated potential for effective measurement of multiple work ability dimensions from employees' perspective. It provides means for efficient location of relevant domains and focus groups for work ability promotion. PRACTITIONER SUMMARY: A novel approach to multidimensional work ability measurement was developed to tackle the challenges of work ability promotion. The properties of the instrument were psychometrically evaluated in structural equation modelling framework. Instrument demonstrated potential for locating relevant domains and focus groups for work ability promotions at workplaces and organisations.